The UK food-to-go market is expected to increase in value by almost 40% on 2019 levels by 2028, according to IGD estimates, a trend that could benefit pork.
Food-to-go has seen continued growth in 2024, with recent research from AHDB showing that more than £48.2 billion was spent on food in the out-of-home market, 14% up year-on-year (Kantar Out-of-home, 52 w/e 9 June 2024).
Value growth has been driven by inflation over the last few years, but volume growth has returned in 2024 and is expected to continue and become the key driver of performance from 2025.
In the 12 weeks to June, there were 92.2 million food-to-go meal occasions which contained beef, lamb and pork, an increase of almost 24% year-on-year with pork accounting for almost three-quarters of this growth.
Sandwiches accounted for 41% of all pork-based food-to-go purchases, while pasties proved to be a popular food-to-go option for beef, accounting for almost 13% of volumes purchased (Kantar Out-of-home).
Whilst almost half of all food-to-go meal occasions happen as part of a daily activity, such as going to work or after exercising, recent research by IGD highlighted that more than half of food-to-go purchases are less routine and are more likely to be spontaneous and unplanned.
Lunch remains a key meal for food-to-go, and in the first quarter of 2024 71% of food-to-go customers purchased for this meal occasion (IGD).
AHDB Retail and Consumer Insight Analyst, Charlotte Forkes-Rees, said: “The food-to-go market is showing no signs of losing popularity; however, supermarkets and retail chains must continue to adapt to suit changing consumer needs and interests. AHDB continue to research these trends and keep retailers informed to support strong demand for our levy payers’ produce, ensuring that they can also benefit from these trends.
“It’s important for food service providers to demonstrate that food-to-go can mean more than just a meal deal, and we’re seeing quick service restaurants joining the lunch time food-to-go meal occasion, and more and more retailers offering hot options, premium item upgrades and less traditional meal options.
“Currently, food-to-go is more likely to be purchased by an older consumer (aged 55+), potentially due to increased disposable income meaning they are able to indulge in on-the-go meals more regularly.
“To tempt in younger demographics, retailers could target new product releases with food trends and flavours that may appeal to broader demographics and the younger generations.”
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